intravascular ultrasound

Intravascular Ultrasound allows detailed evaluation of plaque (Atherosclerosis) its distribution, location, size, and effect on blood vessel diameter that may be lining the inside of the arteries. This information is used to evaluate cardiovascular disease which assists in determining the next step in treatment.

Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) is an invasive diagnostic test using a catheter with a sound transducer (or sound probe) on the end. It is usually performed in conjunction with Angiography/Catheterization and/or Transcatheter interventions (e.g. PTCA, Stent, etc.) The catheter is threaded through the artery in the groin to a specific location of the arterial system to further diagnose the extent of disease. High-frequency sound waves are used to create precise images of the inner arterial walls. These images are displayed in streaming video on a monitor. Once the diagnosis is made, the catheter is carefully removed.